Romance hopes for popcorn-scented bearcats

A zoo is hoping the arrival of a second binturong, or bearcat, could spark a romance between the two animals.

Paignton Zoo said the animals - which have an "unmistakable popcorn scent" - faced mounting threats in the tropical forests of South and South East Asia.

Carlo the male binturong arrived at Paignton Zoo, in Devon, from his previous home at Frankfurt Zoo in Germany.

Carlo will be paired with female binturong Fig which the zoo said could "safeguard a vulnerable species from extinction" if breeding was successful.

The zoo said Fig could produce up to six offspring, known as binlets, after a 92-day gestation period.

"These enigmatic mammals can live up to 25 years in captivity compared to 16-18 years in the wild, potentially making Carlo and Fig one of Paignton Zoo's most enduring partnerships," keepers said.

The zoo said the "distinctive creatures" faced threats from deforestation, hunting, traditional medicine, and the illegal exotic pet trade.

Binturongs are classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

Cindy Naylor, senior keeper of mammals, said: "Carlo and Fig represent an intriguing addition to our conservation efforts.

"Binturongs are not only vital for conservation but also utterly fascinating, with their prehensile tails, distinctive popcorn-like scent, and engaging personalities.

"We're excited to witness this unique relationship blossom, and we hope our visitors are too."

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